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OPINION:
The recent Washington Times op-ed “The South Korea-U.S. alliance is now in peril” by Morse Tan (Web, June 30), suggesting that the Republic of Korea’s recent presidential election was fraudulent and that the ROK-U.S. alliance is in jeopardy, distorts reality and risks undermining the long-standing partnership between our nations.
The Republic of Korea’s democratic system is one of the most vibrant and transparent in the world. Our most recent presidential election, which brought President Lee Jae Myung to office, was conducted fairly and freely, with no evidence or traces of fraud whatsoever. These are not merely assertions from Korean officials; they are facts supported by the absence of any dispute from political parties across the spectrum, not to mention the nation’s independent judicial system.
The Republic of Korea’s democracy results from decades of hard-won progress. From the ashes of war and authoritarianism, our nation has built a resilient, participatory political system that respects the rule of law and guarantees the rights of its citizens. This transformation is an enduring testament to the Korean people’s commitment to democracy, justice and better governance. Attempts to cast doubt on our democracy insult the will of the Korean people and jeopardize the trust essential to strong international partnerships.
The United States government itself has acknowledged this reality. Secretary of State Marco Rubio publicly congratulated President Lee Jae Myung on his victory, joining more than 100 other countries in affirming the legitimacy of South Korea’s election process. Leading U.S. lawmakers also have expressed their support for the outcome. This broad international recognition speaks volumes about the trust and confidence the global community places in South Korea’s democratic institutions.
The Republic of Korea’s democracy is mature, vibrant and exemplary. In the 72 years since the founding of the U.S.-Korea alliance, South Korea has evolved from a war-torn country to a global economic powerhouse with a resilient democratic system admired worldwide. The Korean people have continuously demonstrated their commitment to democratic principles through peaceful transfers of power, respect for the rule of law and open political debate.
Most recently, the Republic of Korea overcame significant political turmoil after the declaration of martial law, once again through the strength and resolve of its people. This “Revolution of Light,” as many have called it, reaffirmed the resilience of South Korean democracy and the maturity of its citizens in safeguarding constitutional order through peaceful means. Attempts to delegitimize this process offend South Korea’s democratic values and threaten to undermine the trust essential to strong international partnerships.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War. The ROK-U.S. alliance, forged during the war, remains as vital and dynamic as ever. It is a partnership based on shared values — democracy, human rights and security — as well as deep economic and cultural ties. Although new challenges emerge, our alliance continues to adapt and strengthen. President Lee Jae Myung has repeatedly emphasized his administration’s commitment to this alliance. The partnership with the United States is foundational to South Korea’s security and regional stability. The countries are working closely to address evolving threats and opportunities in the Indo-Pacific, reaffirming their shared resolve.
Speculative claims that the alliance is in peril or that the new South Korean leadership is unreliable misrepresent the political reality and risk sowing unnecessary doubt. Such rhetoric overlooks the long-standing bipartisan support in both our countries and the continued cooperation at all levels of government.
In these challenging times, it is imperative that we uphold truth and foster mutual respect. South Korea’s democracy stands strong, its alliance with the United States endures, and together we will face the future with confidence and solidarity.
• Hakjo Kim is public affairs minister for the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the United States.
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